Where to stay in Amsterdam 🇳🇱: The 10 Best Places

Amsterdam is one of my favorite cities in Europe, and if you’re planning a trip to this city, prepare to be impressed by all the beauty and incredible attractions this city has to offer! Whether you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam for the first time or where to stay in Amsterdam close to everything, there’s something for every traveler.

You may have heard the rumors that people only go to Amsterdam for marijuana and prostitutes. If you tell your friends that you’re vacationing in Amsterdam, they’ll probably give you a knowing smile and a wink. But there’s so much more to this amazing city than weed and prostitutes.

Amsterdam offers visitors a diverse culture, historical sights, and world-class museums. Foodies will appreciate the fantastic gastronomic offerings, ranging from delicious food trucks to fine dining in Michelin-starred restaurants. No matter where to stay in Amsterdam, you’ll find top-notch dining options nearby.

Given the unique culture of acceptance, you may be wondering if Amsterdam is a safe place to visit. The answer is a resounding yes! As in all big cities, you should always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets, especially if you’re staying in the city centre, which is a popular area. It’s also one of the best areas to stay in Amsterdam.

In Amsterdam, there are accommodation options for every budget. For luxury travelers, there are beautiful five-star hotels that rank among the best hotels to stay in Amsterdam. Backpackers have the choice between various hostels. Travelers in the budget to moderate price category have a large selection of cheap places to stay in Amsterdam, making it easy to choose where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget.

It really is possible to find accommodation for every budget in Amsterdam, whether you’re looking for places to stay in Amsterdam for cheap, or planning a longer visit. Consider staying in unique accommodations like a boat in Amsterdam or one of the many nice places to stay in Amsterdam. This city truly caters to everyone, ensuring you have a memorable experience.

1. Old Centrum – Where to stay in Amsterdam first time​.

If you are short on time or want to see as many sights as quickly as possible, a stay in the old city district of Centrum is a good choice. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam close to everything, Centrum is the perfect location. The Centrum is a tourist district with many restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops, making it ideal for those wanting to experience the heart of the city.

As the name suggests, the Centrum district is the central hub of Amsterdam. Here you will find the Central Station Amsterdam Centraal, as well as bus, metro, and streetcar stops for local transportation that will take you all over the city. For tourists wondering where to stay in Amsterdam central, this area is an excellent choice.

Within the Centrum district and just a short walk from Centraal Station is Dam Square, the main square of Amsterdam. If you stay near Dam Square, you can easily walk to the King’s Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), and the National Monument. It’s a great option for anyone trying to figure out where to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist.

Just a 10-minute walk from Dam Square is Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District. For curious travelers interested in the city’s unique culture, the Red Light District is home to the largest concentration of legal prostitutes. If you’re debating where to stay in Amsterdam for nightlife, this area may appeal to you, but keep in mind that it can be lively at night.

Prostitutes stand behind large glass windows bathed in red light, luring potential customers as they pass by.

During the day, this area may look a little dodgy, but it is relatively safe. Be respectful and don’t try to take photos of the prostitutes or the red-light windows. At night, it’s sensible to take precautions.

Some unique attractions you should check out in this area include:

• The Hashish, Marijuana, and Hemp Museum, which focuses on the history and culture of cannabis.
• The Church of Our Lord in the Attic, hidden in the attic of a canal house. Visitors can tour the small church and the museum on the lower floors.
• Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam (inaugurated in 1306).

If you like taking Instagram photos, stand in front of Amsterdam’s stately Royal Palace on Dam Square for the perfect selfie.

As this area is so popular with travelers, accommodation prices tend to be higher than in other districts. However, there are still plenty of budget options. Travelers on a budget should look for cheap places to stay in Amsterdam near the station if they’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget while remaining close to the main attractions.

BEST BEST PLACES IN THE OLD CITY CENTER

• ($$$) 👉 Hotel TwentySeven – Small Luxury Hotels of the World
• ($$) 👉 Hotel V Nesplein
• ($) 👉 Budget Hotel Tourist Inn

2. Canal belt – Nine streets, the most beautiful and romantic quarter of Amsterdam

Travelers looking for a typically Dutch experience will find that the Canal Belt is their favorite place to stay in Amsterdam. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam for first time, this area is a perfect introduction to the city’s beauty and charm.

Four main canals form a semicircle around the city center of Amsterdam:

• The Singel is the innermost canal and the original moat from the Middle Ages.
• The Herengracht is the first of the large canals and forms a semicircle around the Singel.
• The Keizersgracht is the second large canal and the widest, running in a semicircle around the Herengracht.
• The Prinsengracht is the third large canal and the longest, forming a semicircle around the Keizersgracht.

These four canals form a “belt” around the city, known in Dutch as the Grachtengordel. In August 2010, the Amsterdam canal belt was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, making it an iconic place to stay in Amsterdam city centre for travelers who want to immerse themselves in history and charm.

The area is great for first-time visitors as it is picturesque and centrally located, with easy access to public transportation. If you’re debating where to stay in Amsterdam for first time, the Canal Belt is a top recommendation.

Are you looking for something special? There are houseboats along the canals that are rented out to guests at night, offering a unique and memorable place to stay in Amsterdam.

Between the canals is an area of nine small streets known as De 9 Straatjes or The Nine Streets. This picturesque shopping district is home to a colorful mix of small boutiques, galleries, and cafés, making it a delightful option for those figuring out where to stay in Amsterdam near everything.

Some of Amsterdam’s most famous sights are located in the canal belt, including the Anne Frank House and the Bloemenmarkt or flower market.

You will also find some unique sights here, including:

• The narrowest house in the world, located at Singel 7.
• The Hendrikje Cup Museum, a museum for bags and purses.
• Het Grachtenhuis, a museum about the Amsterdam canals.
• The KattenKabinet or Katzenkabinett, an art museum dedicated to cats.

For the perfect Instagram photo of the Dutch canal, stop on one of the pedestrian bridges along the Prinsengracht. This area offers the most picturesque canal scenery in the Netherlands and is a great tip if you’re deciding where to stay in Amsterdam for a weekend.

Within the canal belt, you will find most of Amsterdam’s luxury hotels, as well as some moderately priced hotels that have been attracted to the area for its typically Dutch atmosphere. If you’re seeking where to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist, the Canal Belt offers a range of accommodation choices to suit all preferences.

THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM IN THE CANAL BELT

• ($$$) 👉 Pulitzer Amsterdam
• ($$) 👉 The Hoxton, Amsterdam
• ($) 👉 Hotel Clemens

3. Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein – Where to stay in Amsterdam for nightlife​.

Travelers looking for a lively nightlife will find the area around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein an excellent place to stay in Amsterdam. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam for nightlife, this vibrant location is perfect.

Although every part of the city is easy to reach by public transport or cab, it’s still convenient to be able to walk back to your hotel after a night out. The area around Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein (Rembrandt Square) offers this possibility.

Leidseplein is a busy hub for the streetcar lines and provides easy access to the extensive streetcar network. Travelers staying in the area should consider purchasing a city pass, which allows them to use the streetcar as well as the metro, bus, and ferries, ensuring you can explore all of Amsterdam.

The area is safe for travelers, although visitors should always be aware of their surroundings after dark. Being cautious is always good advice, especially when you’re out enjoying the nightlife.

Visit Rembrandtplein to see the cast-iron statue of the famous painter and graphic artist Rembrandt van Rijn. This lively neighborhood is surrounded by terrace cafés, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Amsterdam for an exciting evening.

If you are in the Leidseplein area, be sure to check out these sights:

• The Bulldog Cafe, the first “coffee shop” in Amsterdam, is a must-visit for its unique atmosphere.
• The DeLaMar Theater, which hosts musicals, cabarets, and plays, is perfect for an entertaining night out.

Don’t forget to take a snapshot in front of the Rembrandt statue for your best Instagram photo on Rembrandtplein!

Here you will find both budget hostels and hotels ranging from the mid-price segment to five-star luxury. If you’re seeking where to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist, this area has a variety of accommodation options that cater to every preference.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN LEIDSEPLEIN

• ($$$) 👉 Hotel 717
• ($$) 👉 Hard Rock Hotel Amsterdam American
• ($) 👉 The ED Amsterdam

4. Jordaan – Where to stay in Jordaan Amsterdam​.

Just west of the canal belt is the trendy Jordaan district, an excellent choice for travelers wondering where to stay in Jordaan Amsterdam. First-time visitors to Amsterdam will love this district for its charming narrow streets and typically Dutch canals adorned with flowers. If you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam for the first time, Jordaan’s picturesque and laid-back vibe makes it a perfect option.

Many of the older houses in the Jordaan district have a stone plaque or sign above the door that tells the story of the original occupant’s profession. For example, a butcher might have a pig engraved on the tablet, while a tailor might have a pair of scissors. It’s fun to wander around the neighborhood and play the game “Which profession is that?”

Some unique attractions in the area include:

• The Amsterdam Cheese Museum, featuring exclusively Dutch cheeses.
• The quirky Amsterdam Tulip Museum.
• The Amsterdam Houseboat Museum, housed in a former cargo ship called the Hendrika Maria.
• Electric Ladyland, said to be the only fluorescent lamp museum in the world.

If you’re in the Jordaan district on a Saturday, don’t miss the Lindengracht market. This local farmers’ market sells fresh produce, cheese, fish, and general goods, adding to the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere. It’s also a perfect area if you’re considering where to stay in Amsterdam near everything or if you’re curious about where to stay in Amsterdam with family, thanks to its welcoming feel.

There is a wide choice of accommodation in Jordaan, from backpacker hostels to budget hotels, charming bed & breakfast rooms, upmarket hotels, and even top-class hotels. Whether you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget or something more luxurious, Jordaan offers plenty of options for every type of traveler.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE JORDAAN

• ($$) 👉 Hotel Mercier
• ($) 👉 Krisotel
• ($) 👉 Linden Hotel

5. Oud West – Where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget​.

There is a secret to saving money on accommodation in Amsterdam: stay in the Oud-West district. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget, this area is a fantastic choice.

Because so many popular attractions are located in the Centrum district, hotels in this area tend to be overpriced. Consider staying in the nearby Oud-West district instead. Not only will you save money on a place to lay your weary head, but you’ll also get more of the authentic Amsterdam neighborhood feel.

Oud-West is located just outside the semi-circular ring of canals in the canal belt. To give you a better idea of the location, the route from the popular Ten Katemarkt in Oud-West to Dam Square is as follows:

• 11 minutes by bus
• 15 minutes by streetcar
• 25 minutes on foot

If you’re only in Amsterdam for a short time, you should stay in the Centrum district. However, if you have time to get lost in the narrow streets in search of the perfect coffee, consider staying in Oud-West. It’s a great option if you’re looking for where to stay in Amsterdam close to everything but without the high prices.

Feel like a local and shop at the Ten Katemarkt, a lively outdoor market. Take your backpack with you so you can fill it with produce, wine, snacks, and flowers. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the food trucks while you’re there. The Ten Katemarkt is located at Ten Katestraat 97-99 and is open from Monday to Saturday.

Have a picnic in the nearby Vondelpark. This huge 120-hectare park has lots of green spaces, children’s playgrounds, and an open-air stage where free concerts are held in summer—perfect for those considering where to stay in Amsterdam with family.

Food lovers should visit the very popular Foodhallen in the De Hallen complex. De Hallen is housed in a former streetcar station that has been converted into several facilities: a cinema, a library, a boutique hotel, stores, galleries, and the wonderful food halls. If you’re thinking about where to stay in Amsterdam for a weekend, Oud-West is close enough to enjoy all these delights while still being budget-friendly.

There are more than 20 food stalls in the food halls, offering both international and local delicacies, making it a must-visit for anyone staying in the area.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN AMSTERDAM IN OUD-WEST

• ($$$) 👉 Amsterdam Marriott Hotel
• ($$) 👉 Hotel van de Vijsel
• ($) 👉 Hotel Abba

6. Museum Quarter and Oud Zuid – Where is the best neighborhood to stay in Amsterdam​.

Consider this statement: “Amsterdam is home to some of the best museums to stay in Amsterdam; you could spend a week there and never see them all.” If this statement fills your heart with joy, then the Museumkwartier or Museum Quarter is for you. If you’re thinking about where to stay in Amsterdam as a tourist, this area is a fantastic choice.

If this statement is only halfway interesting to you, perhaps one of the neighboring areas is more suitable. In any case, the Museum Quarter is an area that all travelers should visit at least once on their trip to Amsterdam.

The Museum Quarter is home to Amsterdam’s three major museums: the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Stedelijk Museum. For art lovers, it’s an unmissable destination and a great answer to the question of where to stay in Amsterdam for one night if you want to focus on culture.

The Oud Zuid district is one of the most elegant areas in the city. Stately houses line the streets, alongside upscale restaurants and cafés. If you’re wondering where is the best area to stay in Amsterdam, Oud Zuid’s charm and sophistication make it a prime choice.

Luxury stores such as Hermes, Gucci, and Ralph Lauren can be found along the P.C. Hoofstraat, perfect for shoppers looking for high-end fashion.

For the perfect Instagram photos, head to Zevenlanenhuizen Street next to Vondelpark. Seven unique houses line the small street, built to represent the distinctive architecture of seven different nations. Take a great selfie with these colorful houses in the background!

Although the area is known for its luxury hotels, there are also budget accommodations near Vondelpark, including hostels, making it easier to find where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE MUSEUM DISTRICT

• ($$$) 👉 Conservatorium Hotel
• ($$) 👉 Jan Luyken Amsterdam
• ($) 👉 Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Vondelpark

7. De Pijp – Where is the best area to stay in Amsterdam​.

The De Pijp district is a cultural melting pot located south of the canal belt. If you’re considering where to stay in Amsterdam for nightlife, De Pijp is a vibrant choice.

Formerly a working-class district, De Pijp was built to accommodate a constantly growing population. Today, it is a hip and lively area with a touch of bohemia. In this neighborhood, you will find many great stores, cafés, restaurants, bars, and the incredible Albert Cuyp Market.

The Albert Cuyp Market is the largest and most famous open-air market in Amsterdam. With its 260 stalls selling food, clothing, household goods, antiques, and souvenirs, it attracts locals and visitors from all over the world. Be sure to enjoy a hot Stroopwafel dripping with caramel while you’re there!

There are some unique attractions to discover in the De Pijp district:

• The house with the gnomes on top, located at Ceintuurbaan 251-255. Two playful gnomes are perched on top of the house, appearing to throw a red ball.
• Kinderboerderij De Pijp, a small petting zoo at Lizzy Ansinghstraat 82.
• A bench with the slogan “Wake Me Up When I’m Famous” on the brick wall behind it. The bench is located at Frans Halsstraat 64 and is a popular Instagram photo spot.

De Pijp boasts great nightlife, plus Leidseplein is only a few minutes’ walk away. So if you are looking for unforgettable nights out, this area is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Amsterdam.

Most hotels in this area are reasonably priced. For budget-conscious travelers, look for cheap hotels near De Pijp metro station to enjoy both convenience and affordability during your stay.

THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN DE PIJP

• ($$$) 👉 Hotel Okura Amsterdam – The Leading Hotels of the World
• ($$) 👉 Sir Albert Hotel
• ($) 👉 ibis Styles Amsterdam City

8. Plantage Jewish Quarter – Where to stay in Amsterdam family​.

“Take the family to Amsterdam,” they said. “It’ll be fun,” they said. And for once, they were right!

With its many green spaces and parks, the Plantage district is a great location for families traveling to Amsterdam with children. With all the child-friendly attractions in the Plantage and the Jewish Quarter, your children will never be bored.

The Royal Zoo of Amsterdam, also known as ARTIS, is located on a 25-hectare site in the heart of the city. In addition to hundreds of animals, you will also find an aquarium and a planetarium, all included in the zoo entrance fee. If you’re wondering where to stay in Amsterdam with family, this area is perfect.

Next to the zoo is a separate science museum, Micropia, which focuses on microorganisms. When you buy your ARTIS zoo ticket, you can add entry to Micropia at a reduced price, making it a fun and educational experience for your kids.

In the Jewish Quarter, there are several museums and memorials that commemorate the thousands affected by the Holocaust. Some have special exhibitions for children, ensuring that families can engage with history in a meaningful way.

Some notable museums include:

• The Dutch Resistance Museum (Verzetsmuseum), dedicated to those who resisted the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.
• Within the Dutch Resistance Museum, you will also find the Junior Museum, where children from the age of nine can experience what it was like to be a child during the Nazi occupation.
• The Jewish Heritage Museum features a special children’s section, the JHM Children’s Museum, designed to educate young minds.

In the Plantage district, you will find hotels in the middle and upper price categories. Additionally, it is possible to find a cheap hotel near ARTIS Zoo, making it easy for families to enjoy all that Amsterdam has to offer without breaking the bank.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN AMSTERDAM IN PLANTAGE

• ($$$) 👉 Luxury Suites Amsterdam
• ($$) 👉 Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam
• ($) 👉 Generator Amsterdam

9. Amsterdam Noord – Where to stay in Amsterdam near Central Station​.

If you prefer to stay away from the touristy areas of the city, then Amsterdam’s Noord district might be the insider tip you’re looking for. For savvy travelers wondering where to stay in Amsterdam outside the main tourist spots, this area offers a refreshing alternative.

Amsterdam’s North District provides accommodation that is just outside the tourist zone. On the other side of the river IJ, away from the bustling activities of the Centrum district, you can enjoy a more laid-back experience.

You can reach Noord with a fast, free ferry that departs directly behind Centraal Station. The ferry runs every few minutes throughout the day and into the night. A ticket is not required—just hop on and enjoy the short ride to Buiksloterweg.

You’ll save money if you stay in Noord, as the hotels there are cheaper than those in the historic city center. Still, it’s only a five-minute ferry ride across the river, making it a convenient option for those considering where to stay in Amsterdam with family. The area is safe and welcoming.

In recent years, Amsterdam North has transformed from a major shipping area into a vibrant neighborhood filled with great restaurants, art galleries, and entertainment venues. For anyone asking where should I stay in Amsterdam, this area is worth a look.

Even if you don’t want to live in this neighborhood, take the ferry across the river to visit A’Dam Lookout, where you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the city.

If you think there’s nothing to do on this side of the IJ River, here are a few unique attractions to check out:

• Explore the Pekmarkt flea market with its daily changing themes.
• Eat at Pllek, a restaurant in a shipping container that offers a unique dining experience.
• Sail on the river IJ while enjoying unlimited pancakes on the Pannenkoekenboot.

In the summer months, you might even see a cruise ship docking at the Amsterdam Passenger Terminal near Central Station, adding to the lively atmosphere of the area.

THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM NOORD

• ($$) 👉 Sir Adam Hotel
• ($$) 👉 NH Amsterdam Noord
• ($) 👉 Holiday Inn Express Amsterdam – North Riverside, an IHG Hotel

10. Zuidas – accommodation in Amsterdam for business travelers and lower prices

The Amsterdam financial district, known as the Zuidas district, is perhaps the most convenient area to stay in Amsterdam if you are traveling on business. Originally called Zuideramstel, it offers easy access to key locations.

It is only six minutes by train from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Zuid station in Amsterdam’s business district, making it ideal for those wondering where to stay in Amsterdam for business.

The huge RAI Amsterdam Convention Center is also located in the Zuidas district. Every year, the RAI hosts up to 500 conferences, events, and trade fairs, making this area a hub for professionals.

If you are staying in the Zuid district for business reasons, you can still reach many of Amsterdam’s famous sights by public transport. There is a metro station for lines 50, 51, and 52 at Zuid station, as well as two streetcar stops for lines 5 and 25. To give you a better idea of the location, it only takes 10-15 minutes by metro from Zuid station to Centraal station.

The hotels in this area are geared towards business travelers. You will find many large hotel chains that collect hotel guest points, catering specifically to those looking for where to stay in Amsterdam for a weekend of meetings or conferences.

While the hotels in this area may lack character or charm, they offer a decent bed in a clean room. Most hotels provide guests with an on-site restaurant, ensuring convenience for busy professionals.

Additionally, the prices in the Zuidas district are much more affordable than in other areas of the city center, making it an attractive option for those seeking where to stay in Amsterdam on a budget during business trips.

BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN ZUIDAS

• ($$) 👉 Crowne Plaza Amsterdam – South, an IHG Hotel
• ($$) 👉 citizenM Amsterdam South
• ($) 👉 Motel One Amsterdam

Questions about where to stay in Amsterdam:

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